ADHD in Women and Girls
According to the charity ADHD UK, ADHD is still not being diagnosed for girls and women. This is a huge cost to both the individual and the economy.
Females' symptoms are more difficult to identify because they appear differently than the men's. This can also be worsened by hormonal changes, such as menstrual cycles or pregnancy.
Symptoms
Women with ADHD might have trouble telling their doctors that they're experiencing symptoms. They may feel shy to seek help, and they fear that their doctor won't consider it seriously. Women also face difficulties finding a doctor who understands the condition and how it affects women as they age.
The most frequently reported symptoms of ADHD for adults include difficulty paying attention or remaining focused, forgetfulness, being easily distracted, and an impulsive nature. Women are more likely to suffer from the inattention type of ADHD. Inattentive symptoms can include problems with planning and organisation and forgetfulness, or even missing appointments, not completing tasks, being easily distracted, or not remembering what was said during conversations.
Women can also have trouble controlling their emotions and impulses. They can be prone to anger outbursts and emotional meltdowns and have problems with social interactions. They may struggle with math or spelling. They may also have trouble adhering to a consistent exercise routine or making healthy choices for their diet.
It's also harder to spot ADHD symptoms for women than for men due to gender-based stereotypes about gender and behavior. Women with hyperactive or impulse-driven ADHD symptoms may have a harder time being diagnosed, particularly at school where they are often mistakenly diagnosed as having anxiety or depression.
Many women who suffer from ADHD also experience a worsening of ADHD symptoms during menopause and perimenopause. As women begin to enter menopause they produce less estrogen. This can worsen symptoms. Women should be aware of their symptoms and discuss them with their doctor.
Women also benefit from discussing their symptoms with their co-workers and teachers to discover what accommodations they could ask for to boost their performance in the workplace or at school. While many people with ADHD aren't comfortable speaking to their boss or professor, some do so with success and find their workplaces and schools are more than willing to provide reasonable accommodations.
Diagnosis
If you suspect you may have ADHD is a must to consult your GP. Your doctor may refer you to a specialist or give you a diagnosis based on the criteria set by NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence). This may include a review of your symptoms, your medical history, and any problems that could have been caused by them.
Many healthcare professionals fail to recognise how ADHD manifests in women. This can cause delays in the diagnosis and treatment. In addition, the symptoms of ADHD can become worse at different times during women's lives, based on hormonal changes. These include menstrual cycle, pregnancy, perimenopausal (the menopausal transition), and the menopause itself.
ADHD symptoms can also impact the work environment, school and relationships. Adults may have difficulty maintaining a job or relationship and are at risk of depression, substance abuse anxiety, depression and low self-esteem. It can also cause problems with managing finances, making critical decisions, and balancing a variety of priorities.
Speak to your employer if having trouble concentrating or paying close attention at work. You might be able to receive help by taking longer breaks or working from home at times. You might also want to inquire about support services, such as Access to Work which can provide both financial and practical assistance.
It is important to be aware that ADHD is a neurologic condition. The symptoms you experience are not caused by laziness or low self-esteem. You can still reach your goals and be successful. It's going to require a little more planning and effort.
If you're a woman who suffers from ADHD, you can find more information on the NHS website. You can also contact private companies that provide ADHD assessments. There is a possibility of an amount, however you will be analyzed by a professional. They can also offer assistance and advice on how to claim benefits, seeking treatment and coping with workplace issues. They can also help you determine whether you're eligible to receive the Enhanced Disability Living Allowance or Access to Work if employed. This can assist in paying for things like specialised equipment and adaptations at the workplace.
Treatment
Women and girls with ADHD may be prescribed medications to manage their symptoms. Medications used include stimulants and non-stimulants, but it is essential to discuss potential adverse effects with your GP prior to beginning treatment. Regular GP visits are recommended to check the progress of your child or yourself and make sure that the medication is working.
Some of the most common symptoms of ADHD in adults is inattention, difficulties finishing tasks, impulsive behaviour poor organisational skills, and difficulties staying on task or remembering things. The symptoms can change over time, and are often influenced by life events like menopausal, pregnancy, and hormonal changes.
For many people with ADHD, behavioural therapy may be an effective treatment. By changing how you behave and think, you can reduce your symptoms and increase your self-esteem. Girls and women with ADHD can benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) which is a form of therapy that assists in changing negative patterns of thinking and behaviour.
CBT can be done in a group or individually with the help of a Therapist. Some people are able to benefit from eating a healthy, balanced diet and exercising regularly can be beneficial. It is essential to talk with your physician prior to making any changes in your diet or taking any supplements.
It is essential for girls and women with ADHD to receive support from their family, friends and colleagues. They can also join an online support group to connect with other women who have the same disorder and share experiences.
Women with ADHD might also benefit from a mix treatment approach, like treatment with medication and behavioral therapy. Organising their daily schedules and keeping track of deadlines with the help of planners is a great way to manage your day-to-day routine. A balanced diet and physical activity are important for health and well-being.
Many girls and women who suffer from ADHD experience a high level of stress and pressure in modern society. add symptoms in adult women can be due to the expectations of being a loving parent or partner, running household chores and performing well at work. This can increase the challenges of coping with ADHD and increase the likelihood of other mental health conditions being developed, including depression or anxiety.
Support
Women and girls with ADHD often feel misunderstood by people around them. They might experience emotional symptoms such as irritability, mood swings, and a low self-esteem. The symptoms of ADHD may also worsen when there are hormonal changes, for example during pregnancy or menstruation. In addition, many people suffering from ADHD suffer from co-existing mental health issues like depression and anxiety. These conditions can impact the way symptoms are perceived and make it more difficult to manage.
There is plenty of support for girls and women who have ADHD. There are a variety of online support groups, resources, and charities. The website ADHD UK has a specific page for women and girls that features important information, events and support groups. There are peer support meetings and an online forum where people can ask questions.
If an employee is experiencing significant difficulties with their ADHD, they can contact their GP to discuss an assessment. The doctor will be able to refer them to the appropriate service which could be a local mental health clinic or a neurodevelopmental specialist. It is important to note that some individuals find it difficult to be assessed due to a lack clinical awareness or long waiting times. This might be because their issues are believed to be caused by a different issue, such as mental health issues or addiction, not ADHD.
It's also worth noting that if a person's ADHD significantly impacts their work, it can be considered as a disability under the Equality Act 2010. They have a right to reasonable accommodations from their employer. This could be an adjustable schedule or additional support and training at work.
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